Offended: meaning, definitions and examples

😡
Add to dictionary

offended

 

[ əˈfɛndɪd ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

resentful or annoyed, typically as a result of a perceived insult

Synonyms

hurt, insulted, upset.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
offended

Used when someone feels insulted or upset by something that was said or done, usually unintentionally. It often implies a breach of manners or sensitivity.

  • She was offended by his rude comment.
  • He looked offended when they didn't invite him to the party.
insulted

Usually used when someone feels that they have been disrespected or demeaned by someone's words or actions. This word often suggests a stronger sense of offense.

  • He felt insulted by the criticisms of his work.
  • They were insulted when they were not given proper recognition.
hurt

Used to describe emotional pain or distress. This word can be used in both personal and broader social contexts, usually implying deeper emotional impact.

  • His harsh words left her feeling hurt.
  • I was really hurt when my best friend moved away.
upset

This word describes a general state of emotional distress or disturbance, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including feeling offended or hurt.

  • She was upset after the argument with her friend.
  • The news about the layoffs left everyone deeply upset.

Examples of usage

  • She was offended by his remarks during the meeting.
  • He looked offended when she refused his offer.
Context #2 | Verb

action

cause to feel upset or resentful

Synonyms

hurt, insult, upset.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
offended

Used when someone feels insulted or hurt by something someone said or did, often involving personal feelings or principles.

  • She was offended by his rude comments.
  • He felt deeply offended when his contribution was ignored.
hurt

Used when someone feels emotional pain or distress, often due to personal issues or relationships. Can also describe physical pain.

  • Her harsh words hurt him deeply.
  • He was hurt by the betrayal of his close friend.
insult

Used to describe a comment or action that is meant to demean or belittle someone. It often has a negative and intentional connotation.

  • Calling someone lazy is a terrible insult.
  • He felt an affront to his dignity after the public insult.
upset

Describes a state of being emotionally disturbed or agitated, often due to unexpected or unpleasant events.

  • She was upset after hearing the bad news.
  • His constant criticism made her very upset.

Examples of usage

  • His comments offended many people in the audience.
  • I didn't mean to offend you with my joke.

Translations

Translations of the word "offended" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ofendido

🇮🇳 अपमानित

🇩🇪 beleidigt

🇮🇩 tersinggung

🇺🇦 ображений

🇵🇱 obrażony

🇯🇵 気分を害した

🇫🇷 offensé

🇪🇸 ofendido

🇹🇷 gücenmiş

🇰🇷 모욕감을 느끼는

🇸🇦 مهان

🇨🇿 uražený

🇸🇰 urazený

🇨🇳 被冒犯的

🇸🇮 užaljen

🇮🇸 móðgaður

🇰🇿 ренжіген

🇬🇪 შეურაცხყოფილი

🇦🇿 incimiş

🇲🇽 ofendido

Etymology

The word 'offended' originated from the Latin word 'offendere', which means 'to strike against'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include feeling upset or resentful due to a perceived insult. The concept of being offended has been present in human interactions throughout history, often leading to conflicts or misunderstandings.

See also: offence, offend, offender, offense, offensive.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,019 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.